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Published on: September 22, 2014
Increase in brain activation due to sub-tasks during driving: fMRI study using new MR-compatible driving simulator
Mi-Hyun Choi1, Hyung-Sik Kim1, Hee-Jeong Yoon1
1Department of Biomedical Engineering, Research Institute of Biomedical Engineering, College of Biomedical & Health Science, Konkuk University, Chungju, South Korea.
Simulating real driving with a wheel and pedals, this study found that performing sub-tasks while driving increased activation in brain regions for error monitoring and control. This contrasts with simpler simulators, highlighting the impact of realistic driving on neural activity.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Psychology
- Human Factors Engineering
Background:
- Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies have explored neural activity during simulated driving.
- Previous research utilized simplified simulators (joysticks, trackballs), limiting real-world applicability.
- This study employed an MR-compatible driving simulator with a wheel and pedals for a more realistic driving experience.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate neural activation differences during realistic driving versus driving with concurrent sub-tasks.
- To compare brain responses using a high-fidelity driving simulator against previous fMRI studies.
Main Methods:
- Participants drove in an MR-compatible simulator at 80 km/h.
- Experimental conditions included driving-only and driving while performing an additional sub-task.
- fMRI was used to measure brain activity during control and driving phases.
Main Results:
- Performing sub-tasks decreased activation in the parietal area (spatial perception).
- Increased activation was observed in the inferior frontal gyrus and superior temporal gyrus (task-performing areas).
- The cingulate gyrus and sub-lobar regions (error monitoring, movement control) showed heightened activation during dual-task driving.
Conclusions:
- A realistic driving simulator with a wheel and pedals better mimics real-world driving compared to simpler devices.
- Simultaneous task performance during realistic driving increases the need for movement control, leading to greater activation in relevant brain areas.
- Findings underscore the neural demands of multitasking while driving.
